A fundamental endgame where the Queen slowly maneuvers to force the defending King and Rook into zugzwang or a fork, separating the Rook from its King.
Queen vs Rook Endgame (Philidor Win) Interactive Position
Step 0 of 0
Position Analysis
Starting position. Use the controls below to step through the moves.
Essential Endgame Principles
Drive the defending King and Rook to the edge or corner of the board.
Use triangle maneuvers with the Queen to pass the move (zugzwang) to the defender.
Create a double attack (fork) picking up the Rook, or force checkmate if the Rook leaves the King's defense.
Step-by-Step Technique
Step 1: Tighten the cage around the defender's King with Queen and King coordination.
Step 2: Force the defending Rook onto an unprotected or awkward square using precise Queen checks.
Step 3: Deliver a diagonal check forking the enemy King and Rook.